By EWAN KENNEDY
30 October 2006

Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) has introduced a pair of interesting new models to its range. Tagged Force 6 and Force 8, the new high-performance machines are based on regular six- and eight-cylinder FPV models but have a more subtle appearance.

FPV's says it’s aiming these hot Falcons at drivers who want a performance machine, but are tired of the sort of attention this sort of car can attract on the street. The company is also aware that successful owners of businesses don’t want to scream out their success in front of employees.

It’s a well-known fact that the sort of guy (it usually is a guy) already avoids overtly expensive cars such as those from the big German makers. Now FPV is giving them the option of an Aussie product that falls into the ‘sleeper’ category.

Not that it’s subtle to the point of being anonymous. The big Fords certainly stand out from the crowd thanks to their bold frontal appearance, the Force 8 has, of course, the bonnet bulge needed to clear the twin-cam cylinder heads of the Boss engine. And the Force 6’s intercooler is clearly seen behind the lower area of the front intake.

At the rear, a tiny spoiler alters the aerodynamics of the car without resorting to a look-at-me manner.

Refinement is part of the cabin package, with interiors using dark woodgrain inserts and chromed highlights. Leather trim can be specified in either charcoal or red, the latter having a strong European look that works nicely in the big Falcons. Note that the colour choices vary with the paint shade – talk to your FPV dealer for details.

FPV's Prestige sound system, using six speakers and a six-disc CD changer, adds to the quality feel of the cabin.

Instruments have the FPV design touches that differentiate them so well from the standard Falcon.

Taking pride of place on the dash is FPV's controversial engine starter button, not our favourite item it must be admitted, but there are many who like this sort of thing, seeing it giving a race-car image.

Force 6 features the 4.0-litre intercooled, turbocharged FPV engine, with a big torque output of 550 Nm and 270 kW. The twin-cam Boss V8 produces 520 Nm and 290 kW.

Both Force models use the highly-regarded ZF-built, six-speed automatic transmission with settings specifically set up for the FPV range. With useful manual over-rides it enables the keen driver to get the best from the performance engines.

Ford Performance Vehicle aims to counter the attack from arch-rival HSV. That company has recently introduced its E Series models based on the new VE Commodore.

 

The FPV Force 6 has a recommended retail price of $71,590 and the Force 8 isn’t a lot more at just $71,990. The V8's price reflecting the comparative fragility of that market segment in these times of uncertain fuel prices.

We have managed a quick 200 plus kilometres in the new FPV Force models and have come away impressed by their ability to cover ground in a fast and relaxed manner. The inherent safety in any powerful engine shows up in short overtaking distances and road grip is enhanced over the already-good Falcon because of the FPV developed sports settings.

FPV has also instituted changes to the rest of its range to take advantage of the recently announced BF Series II Falcon range.